All the episodes of Netflix's latest dating reality show, The Later Daters were released on the platform on November 29, 2024. The new show follows singles aged 50 and above as they navigate the dating world and give love a second chance.
Episode 5 of The Later Daters followed Nate going on his fourth date with Michelle, a 55-year-old actress and twice-divorced mother of three. Michelle had been single for eight years and joined the show with the hope of finding a meaningful relationship.
During their pool date, Nate told Michelle that he was speechless. It offered Nate a chance to connect with Michelle beyond initial impressions. Their meeting began with mutual compliments, and Nate presented flowers to Michelle after a moment of forgetfulness.
"Oh man, I don't even know what to say. I'm lost for words right now," Nate said.
The dating coach on The Later Daters, Logan, Nate's journey so far on the show has highlighted his Maximizer dating tendencies. In episode 5, Logan observed that Nate suffered from “unrealistic expectations.”
Nate and Michelle’s first impressions and shared experiences in The Later Daters
Episode five of The Later Daters saw Nate and Michelle begin their date with an exchange of warm greetings. When they met, Nate complimented Michelle on her dress and after a pause, he gave her the flowers that he got for her but had momentarily forgotten.
He told her that her "beauty captured" him so much that he forgot to give her the flowers. Michelle appreciated his previous compliment on her dress and the flowers he gave her. As they sat by the pool, Nate appeared visibly moved, stating he was at a loss for words.
Soon, their conversation transitioned into a discussion about drinks, and after ordering their drinks, Nate explained that he didn't drink. While Michelle ordered a margarita, Nate ordered a virgin margarita. Michelle asked if her drinking bothered him and Nate told her that it didn't bother him "at all."
When Michelle asked why Nate was still single, he responded by saying that he hadn't met his match yet, as he seemed to reference a line from the movie Girls Trip. Michelle, who enjoyed the comment, shared her thoughts about Nate in her confessional, saying she initially felt overdressed compared to his casual sneakers.
She admitted her attraction towards him and said that she had "a thing for bald heads," and that he "got little points" for the same.
Their shared army background further strengthened their connection, with each sharing their respective military experiences. Michelle opened up about her time in the army, sharing a story about how she enlisted. She revealed that she joined the military straight out of high school, and initially approached the entrance test without much seriousness.
"I did C, A, B, C, A, B for all the answers and laid down," she laughed.
Despite this casual approach, she received offers for roles including mortician specialist, food service, mechanic, and truck driver. Ultimately, she chose food service and served in the military for four years.
Michelle’s perspective and Nate’s hope for a second date in The Later Daters
The date concluded on an optimistic note as Nate expressed his desire to see Michelle again. The cast member voiced his interest, saying he hoped they could meet for another date and suggested taking a photo together before parting. Michelle agreed and took a picture with him on her phone, capturing the moment.
In his confessional, Nate shared his thoughts about Michelle and said that she was "a very intelligent fireball."
"Michelle is a very intelligent fireball. She's got a little spice to her, and pleasingly fun," the cast member noted.
Michelle also reflected positively on the date during her confessional, saying she enjoyed their time together and would be open to a second date. However, she added that it was too early to assess their romantic potential.
Fans can watch all eight episodes of The Later Daters, which are currently streaming on Netflix.